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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Analyzes operating procedures and field data to help optimize treatment process. * Serve as Subject ... Candidate must have experience working with process water treatment in refineries, chemical plants ...

Interpret laboratory results to provide technical recommendations for refinery process improvement ... Develop test methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for product evaluation. * Maintain ...

Process Modeling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

... refining processes for critical minerals - key to enabling the world's energy transition. In this ... Calibrate and reconcile models using pilot or plant operating data to ensure model fidelity and ...

Staff Process Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

You will help design, deploy, and operate first-of-its-kind refining processes for critical ... operating procedures, and control narratives * Analyze experimental and operational data to ...

Senior Process Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

... refineries * Identify, evaluate, and implement engineering solutions to optimize process and reactor designs, confirming functionality and performance under various operating conditions What You ll ...

Job Summary Manages multiple decontamination projects using Zyme-Flow in refinery process units and ... Support Project Specialist and Field Operators in execution. * Manage Travel Request Team excluding ...

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Refinery Process Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

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$26

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Houston, TX is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Refinery Process Operators?

Refinery Process Operators are skilled professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the machinery and equipment in oil refineries. They oversee the refining process, ensuring that crude oil is converted into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel efficiently and safely. Their duties include adjusting controls, conducting inspections, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining safety standards. Refinery Process Operators play a critical role in preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth operation of the facility.

What does a process operator do in a refinery?

A refinery process operator monitors and controls equipment used in refining crude oil into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They interpret data from gauges and instruments, adjust valves and controls, and ensure safety and efficiency in the plant's operations, often working in shifts and following strict safety protocols.

How much do refinery operators make in the US?

Refinery process operators in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced workers and those in higher-cost-of-living areas earning more. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the refinery environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Refinery Process Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Refinery Process Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, responding to process upsets, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Effective communication with team members and prompt decision-making are crucial for troubleshooting issues and minimizing downtime. Operators typically rely on their training, process control systems, and support from maintenance or engineering teams to resolve problems quickly. Staying proactive with regular monitoring and adhering to safety protocols helps ensure smooth operations and a safe workplace.

How do I become a refinery operator?

To become a refinery process operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in process technology, chemistry, or a related field. On-the-job training is common, and operators often obtain certifications such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) or industry-specific safety certifications. Strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment are essential.

How hard is it to get a job at a refinery?

Securing a refinery process operator position typically requires relevant technical skills, such as knowledge of process control systems and safety procedures, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers often look for prior experience or certifications like OSHA training, and the job can involve shift work in a demanding environment, making competition moderate to high depending on location and experience level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refinery Process Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refinery Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a technical field. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), process monitoring software, and industry safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for responding to operational issues and maintaining productivity. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compliant refinery operations in a complex industrial environment.

What is the difference between Refinery Process Operator vs Chemical Plant Operator?

AspectRefinery Process OperatorChemical Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in refinery operationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in chemical processing
Work EnvironmentRefineries, oil processing facilitiesChemical manufacturing plants
Industry UsageOil and gas industryChemical manufacturing industry
Job FunctionsOperate and monitor refining equipment, ensure safety and efficiencyOperate chemical processing equipment, monitor reactions and safety

Refinery Process Operators and Chemical Plant Operators share similar credentials and work environments, often requiring certifications and safety training. While both roles involve operating complex equipment, Refinery Process Operators focus on oil refining processes, whereas Chemical Plant Operators work in chemical manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path within the processing industries.

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Process Operator jobs in Houston, TX? For Refinery Process Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Refinery Process Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Refinery Process Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,984 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Refining Chemical Engineering Intern/Co-op Spring 2027

Refining Chemical Engineering Intern/Co-op Spring 2027

Marathon Petroleum Corporation

Texas City, TX

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Marathon Petroleum rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 201 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

An exciting career awaits you

At MPC, we're committed to being a great place to work - one that welcomes new ideas, encourages diverse perspectives, develops our people, and fosters a collaborative team environment.

Responsibilities:

As a Chemical Engineer at a Marathon refinery, you can expect to become familiar with process equipment fundamentals and best practices, build critical thinking skills, and gain an understanding of how all engineering disciplines work together as a cohesive team. You will also gain knowledge of various aspects of a refinery by working with a team of professionals who run a specific portion of the refining process. Most often, Chemical Engineers will have an opportunity to work on more than one area of the refinery, leading to a broad understanding of how the plant operates. Finally, you will have the opportunity to expand your written and verbal presentation skills in a professional work environment.

Most Chemical Engineering co-ops and interns enter into the following positions:

Process / Technical Service Engineersmay work on a variety of projects in the Technical Services Department together with your mentor that put your classroom experience as a Chemical Engineer into practice. The vast majority of our Chemical Engineering interns/co-ops work in this area. The experience will expand your understanding of the refining environment and technical aspects of the refinery. Past projects/duties include: develop and lead test runs to optimize refinery operations; perform process engineering calculations concerning the various process technology (or equipment) in the refinery; monitor and make recommendations in regards to catalyst and adsorbents; complete projects and provide recommendations for improvements to the refinery process and equipment.

Operations Research Engineersmay help develop planning, blending, scheduling, and process models for refinery engineers. The models are used to optimize crude oil purchasing, refinery production, blending and finished product scheduling, and optimization of refinery production. Typical college co-op assignments include: validation of production data and mass balancing, process modeling, and development of graphical interfaces of refinery process units.

Environmental Engineerswork on projects that involve the compliance of the entire refinery, and you will be exposed to the majority of process units in the refinery. You will be applying the engineering principles and calculations to various environmental projects and will also give you a broad knowledge of the various environmental laws that are applicable to refineries and what it takes to maintain compliance with those laws. Past projects/duties include: perform process calculations for the Risk Management Plan, including taking physical surveys of refinery process units; work on various process engineering projects within a Wastewater Treatment Plant; participate in inspections and/or testing that is conducted by federal, state, or local officials.

Products Control / Economics Engineersmay work on a wide array of projects including operations, blending, and refinery economics. You will gain an understanding of how a tank farm is operated and how gasoline and other products are prepared and shipped to customers. In addition, you will gain some exposure to the overall economics of the refinery and how operating decisions are made based upon these economics. Past projects/duties include: analyze refinery process flow data and compare to recommended optimum levels, this will help in identifying equipment failures which cause variances in capacity from the optimum levels; update information on gasoline blends and tank samples in preparation for an annual blender waiver audit; develop applications to better present process data for refinery operating decisions.

Qualifications:

  • Candidates must be majoring in Chemical Engineering
  • Strong academic performance
  • Candidates must be authorized to work in the US on a full-time indefinite basis without the need for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future.
  • Positions are available spring, summer, and fall semesters
  • Availability for multiple work terms is preferred
  • A valid driver's license is required
  • Concurrent enrollment in a degree seeking program
  • Military experience a plus
  • MIN - $33.54 - $42.45 MAX

Learn more about Marathon Petroleum's benefits at www.mympcbenefits.com

As an energy industry leader, our career opportunities fuel personal and professional growth.

Location:

Findlay, Ohio

Job Requisition ID:

00020447

Pay Min/Max:

$0.00 - $999.99 Hourly

Grade:

HRLY1

Location Address:

539 S Main St

Additional locations:

Anacortes, Washington, Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, Canton, Ohio, Catlettsburg, Kentucky, Detroit, Michigan, El Paso, Texas, Garyville, Louisiana, Kenai, Alaska, Mandan, North Dakota, Martinez, California, Robinson, Illinois, Salt Lake City, Utah, San Antonio, Texas, St Paul Park, Minnesota, Texas City, Texas, Wilmington, California

Education:

Employee Group:

Part time

Employee Subgroup:

Intern

Marathon Petroleum Company LP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive health decision-making, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition or AIDS/HIV status, ancestry, national origin, genetic information, military, veteran status, marital status, citizenship or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. If you would like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant, click here.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process at Marathon Petroleum LP, please contact our Human Resources Department at talentacquisition@marathonpetroleum.com. Please specify the reasonable accommodation you are requesting, along with the job posting number in which you may be interested. A Human Resources representative will review your request and contact you to discuss a reasonable accommodation. Marathon Petroleum offers a total rewards program which includes, but is not limited to, access to health, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, 401k matching program, paid parental leave, and educational reimbursement. Detailed benefit information is available atmympcbenefits.com. The hired candidate will also be eligible for a discretionary company-sponsored annual bonus program.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Veteran / Disability

We will consider all qualified Applicants for employment, including those with arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. In reviewing criminal history in connection with a conditional offer of employment, Marathon will consider the key responsibilities of the role.


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About Marathon Petroleum

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Marathon Petroleum Corporation, headquartered in Findlay, Ohio, US, is a leading independent petroleum refining, marketing, and transportation company. Their official website can be found at marathonpetroleum.com. The company, part of the energy sector, was established in 1887, making it one of the oldest petroleum companies in the US. It operates an integrated refining, marketing and transportation system concentrated primarily in the Midwest, Northeast, East Coast, Southeast and Gulf Coast of the United States. This includes refineries, pipelines, and terminals that process and transport crude oil and refined products.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Findlay, OH, US

Year founded

1887